Does Auto Insurance Provide Coverage for Rental Moving Trucks? (U-Haul, Penske, Hertz, etc.)

As the summer begins to wind down and we get closer to September, it becomes a popular time for moving and moving truck rentals. Whether you’re moving your child into their dorm room or need to transport furniture into your new home - renting a truck from U-Haul, Penske, Hertz or other rental companies can be the easiest way to haul all of your furniture and belongings to your new home. 

Still, moving any amount of belongings can be a stressful time for anyone - especially when it comes to understanding how your rental moving truck and your belongings will be insured in the event of any accidents or damages. 

At Berry Insurance, we want to aid in your next move however we can. And while we cannot be there to help pivot your couch up a flight of stairs, we can still break down your insurance options when renting a truck for your next move.

Does my auto insurance cover rental moving trucks? 

While personal auto insurance policies will typically extend coverages to rented cars, insurance providers usually limit coverage based on the vehicle’s maximum weight - which unfortunately excludes most moving trucks. So, when you are renting a truck for your next move, the insurance coverage from your auto policy will likely not cover you in the event you are involved in an accident or have any damages made to the vehicle. 

However, this can vary depending on your own insurance agent/provider, as well as the weight/size of the rental vehicle - as some smaller sized rental vans may be eligible for coverage. Be sure to check with your own agent or provider to see if your coverage will extend to your rental vehicle before moving. 

Do I need coverage for my rental moving truck? 

Unlike insurance for standard vehicles, you are not legally required to insure a moving truck or van while renting. This does not mean that you shouldn’t consider other coverage options, however, as you will be financially responsible for any damages to yourself or the rented vehicle. 

What insurance options are available for rental moving trucks? 

Just because your auto insurance policy likely won’t provide coverage, does not mean you’re out of options when renting a truck for your next move. Most rental companies will offer renters some form of additional auto insurance to cover the vehicle you plan on renting. While these policies will cost an additional fee, they can be the best way to ensure you won’t be stuck paying for any damages or repairs out of pocket while using your rented vehicle. 

If you opt not to purchase a rental company's insurance coverage, they may provide a minimal amount of liability coverage on their rented vehicles, but you will still be responsible for damages or injuries caused while using the rented moving vehicle. 

The insurance policies offered by rental companies will typically only provide coverage for accidental damages, such as hitting or getting hit by another vehicle. Most rental companies will exclude both mechanical or physical damage to the vehicle caused by user error from inexperienced van or truck drivers. Common examples of damages that can occur from an inexperienced driver include shifting incorrectly, hauling heavy equipment in the wrong gear, and colliding with overhead objects the trucks are too tall to pass under safely. 

Renters should be aware that as the contract signer, they will be the one held responsible for any damages - even if another individual was operating the rental at the time of the accident. 

Are my belongings covered while moving? 

Insurance coverage offered through the rental company will not provide coverage for the items or cargo you are moving/transporting. You will need to purchase additional cargo insurance for coverage, unless you already have a homeowners or renters insurance policy that offers personal property protection. Do note that your personal property protection coverage will cover you items from theft or damages, but won’t provide coverage for scuffs or breaks that result from normal wear and tear during a move. 

Moving with peace of mind

With a seemingly endless amount of moving parts, we understand just how much goes into making a move into a new home possible. Now that you know more about your auto policies exclusions, as well as your other coverage options, you can better plan for your upcoming moving truck rental.

While your auto insurance may not cover your rented vehicle on the road, we still want to help your transition to your new home any way we can. Wondering how moving to a new home affects your other insurance policies? Check out our article covering property changes and when to update your homeowners insurance policy. 

If you instead have a child going off to college, you may be unsure if they should remain listed on your auto policy. Read this article for more information: Should I Exclude My Child from Auto Insurance While They’re Away at School?